Responding to the massive protests on New Year's Day calling for Leung Chun-ying to step down, a government spokesman said the chief executive was concentrating on preparing his first policy address, working on various areas, including people's livelihood and the economy, addressing deep-rooted problems, and promoting stability in society.

No one should envy Emily Lau Wai-hing for the burden she has taken on by becoming chairwoman of the Democratic Party. But amid the difficulties, there lurks an opportunity for her to strike a bold blow for the advancement of democracy in our city.

The city's top graft buster has interviewed about 10 people, included a defeated candidate with strong mainland and rural connections, over alleged vote buying during the Legislative Council election last month.